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In this module, the concepts of the perception and action cycle (PAC) are discussed.  This module aims to situate the notions of perception and cognition within a broad conceptual grounding. The fact that organisms exist within an environment in which they must adapt in order to survive and thrive is the main focus that enables a discussion of some of the implications that follow from this fact. 

This module reviews the basic properties of human decision making.  This module begins by introduces a “rational” model of decision making based on expected utility theory. This module assumes that people assess the utility of an outcome by multiplying its value by its probability. This is the model used by economists and it often applies to human decision making, but there are also many cases where it does not explain what people actually do. In this module we discuss when the expected utility model of decision making fails and why.

This module asks why we have emotions and presents the evidence for a wired in system of basic emotions that has a large impact on our thinking and behavior.  This module begins by discussing the purpose of emotions as a way to guide behavior and learning. The work of Paul Ekman in identifying six basic emotions is reviewed, along with the evidence that supports the idea that we have these basic emotions. The role of facial expressions in conveying emotion is described, and the location of emotions within the brain is discussed.